FIQWS- The Classification of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Classes

We live in one of the wealthiest countries on Earth. Despite this, the U.S has a significant difference between social classes. Annual salaries are a huge part of one’s status in this country. Our population is categorized and classified into groups. By separating the rich from the poor, we create division in society. Three classes exist, which are used to isolate differences in wealth and status. These three classes are the upper, middle and lower classes. They measure the wealth a person holds, categorizing them based on this.

The upper class is the highest social and economic status possible. This class is associated with the rich and privileged. More often than not, they were born rich. Often, they have high paying jobs. For the most part, they receive their income through their salaries. However, I agree that there are also those who gained their riches through investing and other methods. Often, they have the possibility to be self-employed, building their own company.

A frequently used term when referencing the upper class is the “1%”. In other words, only 1% of the entire nation is considered upper class. They are incredibly wealthy with a prestige status, living beyond comfortably. Members of the upper class also tend to have the highest levels of education. It is often said that they have the power to shape and influence the media, public opinion, trends, and even businesses. 

The middle class is one of the largest of all social classes. This includes one-third of the nation’s population. People in this category are commonly nurses, professors, or paralegals. They work for their salary, but can still live comfortably. The middle class is also considered to be very educated individuals. Although, they share similar qualifications as the upper class. This is not to say they are quite as high. While educated, their highest education level is generally a bachelor’s degree. 

Lastly, there is the lower class. Often referred to as the poor; these are people with low education. They mostly struggle finding a job or a stable source of income. And, often judged and seen as a burden to society. Perhaps because of their appearance or the stigma created by others. They are essentially at the bottom of the social hierarchy. The lower class usually works very physically demanding jobs for little pay. Their highest education level will often be a high school diploma. They often rely on food stamps and welfare checks just to survive. I agree that the lower class often faces unfair discrimination, a point that needs emphasizing since so many people still believe the lower class is lazy and don’t truly need or deserve the government’s financial help. 

Clearly, the three main social classes differ tremendously from one another. There are people living fabulous and comfortable lives. While others struggle to stay fed and alive. Many factors play into the reasons why some people are at the top of the pyramid. While others are living in poverty. Of course, there are other subcategories in between these three main ones. But the upper, middle and lower classes identify and represent the social hierarchy of America. They highlight how much power one has simply based on their incomes. Clearly showing the qualities necessary to be considered a certain status. I believe social classes hold great significance to them. They are used by society to place value and worth to people.  

 

Reference(s)

https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-sociology/chapter/the-impacts-of-social-class/

 

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